Konquer Method

We have seen a lot of changes in the way we teach the technical components of hockey. “Skill Development” two words with such wide and differentiated approaches. To me, Karl Lindén, founder of Konquer Hockey, skill development is very similar to technology, it is constantly changing and evolving. 

Each individual player in hockey is different. The importance lies in what each particular player needs; strengths, weaknesses within their movement patterns, skating & shooting habits. In essence, I operate every practice as building blocks to isolate and define the technical components of a skill, then apply it into an actual game sequence or movement pattern. If a player doesn't understand when and where to apply a particular skill and in what situation, it becomes less relevant.

Let’s face it! Every coach or scout spends countless hours searching for that player that can control a game. The player that can change a game on their own, that the coach can trust when the last seconds of a game are counting down. A player I call “Game Changer”. I use the individual aspect of teaching the components to create that game changing player.

Growing up in Sweden, I blend the European smooth evasive skating and mobile, puck possession style players, with the American explosive, goal scoring mindset in a great mixture. I force my players to be uncomfortable and to understand that what you give into your craft is what will also come out in the end. My job is to guide each player in that direction, to achieve their highest potential. 

I understand that “less is more” when it comes to playing the game. I come across a lot of players that try and label themselves as a two way center or an offensive defenseman although they don’t know if its accurate nor translates to the next level. With that said, I see the importance of being less position specific. Players need the assets of being interchangeable, to adapt to any situation, create space, join the rush and function within systems that today are all offensively minded. Or, at least try to be! 

“If you can’t skate, you can’t play”. Skating is what is so special about ice hockey. I emphasize the importance of using edge work and spend a lot of time on proper balance, form and understanding the components of where on the ice it’s relevant to transition, stop and turn. I create clips and game film to break down where on the ice each player needs to work on their skating, where and in what situations they can act and think differently.

In the end it all starts with our feet. Feet and hands must work together symmetrically. Coordination of skating (feet) and hands (upper body) is only as effective as the two components working efficiently. Players blending the two is a dangerous mix. Smooth is fast and coordination is efficient. 

Shooting is another part of hockey that changed drastically. Shooting in stride has become a necessity as it is extremely hard to beat a goaltender clean or from far out. I teach shooting deception, change of angles, quick release and shooting for placement. Shooting hard is only relevant according to the situation. 

Ice hockey has many life teaching aspects. The importance of teamwork, leadership, work ethic, winning & losing. However, as each season has an end, it's about becoming complete and comfortable with ourselves, working on your weaknesses and overcoming hurdles you didn't know you were capable of. That is my goal, to “Konquer your Game”

I communicate with my players on a personal basis mostly before or after practice and force my players to tell me exactly what they feel, not what they think I want to hear. I communicate on a level where it is ok to question. I believe in “no matter what you know, you never know enough”. I don't hide behind a fancy email address or make you false promises. 

Making it in hockey is extremely hard but the process of getting better should not be. I believe that you are only as good as your environment: Some of the current players I work with players in the NHL, AHL, ECHL, European Pro, QMJHL, NCAA DI, NCAA DIII, Junior Ranks, Prep & High School. 

If you are ready to Konquer it, give me a call.  

Karl Lindén